It seems there are still many misconceptions about contact lenses—even within the optometric industry. It’s time to move forward and embrace modern technology, which has revolutionised the way we correct vision with contact lenses.
Correcting Astigmatism with Contact Lenses
One of the most common myths is that astigmatism cannot be corrected with contact lenses. While this might have been true a few decades ago, it’s no longer the case. Today, we can successfully fit contact lenses for astigmatism, even when the prescription is high. If you’ve been told in the past that contact lenses aren’t an option for you, it’s worth revisiting this conversation with your optometrist.
Multifocal Contact Lenses for Reading and Computer Work
Another common issue is the need for multifocal or reading glasses as we age. If you’re finding it difficult to see clearly while working on a computer or reading without glasses, modern contact lens technology has solutions. For years, the go-to method for patients who didn’t want to wear reading glasses was monovision—where one eye is corrected for distance vision and the other for near vision.
However, this is an outdated and inefficient solution. Monovision can reduce depth perception and contrast sensitivity, which is particularly important when driving at night.
The Future is Multifocal Contact Lenses
Fortunately, we now have multifocal contact lenses (also known as varifocal contact lenses). These lenses use advanced technology to enable you to see clearly at both distance and near simultaneously—with both eyes working together as a team. This approach preserves depth perception and contrast sensitivity, offering better functional vision and more comfortable vision overall.
Managing Expectations with Multifocal Contact Lenses
While multifocal contact lenses offer amazing results, managing expectations is key. Depending on your primary visual needs, one distance—either near or far—may be prioritised slightly over the other. For example, if your work requires you to be on the computer most of the day, near vision may be enhanced, while distance vision may be slightly less sharp. However, the difference is usually minor and barely noticeable.
It’s also important to note that the brain takes some time to adapt to multifocal lenses—typically about three weeks. However, many patients find themselves very happy with their multifocal contact lenses once they’ve adjusted.
Transitioning from Monovision to Multifocals
For patients who have been wearing monovision contact lenses for years, transitioning to multifocal lenses might be challenging, but it’s worth considering. Some people’s brains adapt to the change more easily than others, so it’s always worth giving it a try. You might find multifocal significantly improves your visual comfort.
Multifocal Lenses for Astigmatism
If you have astigmatism and also need help with reading, there are now multifocal contact lens options available. While this is a more recent development, and the options are still somewhat limited, there are solutions to explore. During your eye exam, we can discuss which options would work best for you.
Multifocal Contact Lenses for Children
Multifocal contact lenses aren’t just for adults. They have been revolutionary in helping children with myopia (shortsightedness). Myopia is a progressive condition, meaning a child’s vision worsens over time. Multifocal contact lenses have proven to be very effective in slowing down the progression of myopia in children and young adults under the age of 25.
Discover the Right Contact Lenses for You
Whether you’re looking to correct astigmatism, manage your reading vision, or find a solution for a child with myopia, today’s contact lenses offer more options than ever before. This amazing technology can help with many visual issues, and it might just be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Call to Action: Book Your Eye Exam Today
If you’d like to explore what contact lens options are available for you or your child, book a comprehensive eye exam at our practice. We specialise in general optometry, family optometry, and paediatric optometry. Let’s discuss how multifocal or astigmatism-correcting lenses can give you better, more comfortable vision.
